Stop the Scratching and Start Eliminating Fleas

Bob Cartwright

Editor’s note: July PCT included a focus on fly control – including small flies and fleas. In the following online extra, Dr. Bob Cartwright, technical manager, Syngenta Professional Pest Management, discusses an integrated approach to flea control.

As each summer day gets warmer, pest management professionals (PMPs) need effective ways to provide long-lasting residual control of fleas, which thrive in the heat and humidity much of the U.S. is currently experiencing. With diligence and the proper tools, PMPs can help homeowners successfully defend against even the most difficult infestations of these irritating warm-season pests.

Attack from All Sides
People and pets enjoy spending more time outside during the summer months, but high temperatures can lead to increased flea and tick populations.

PMPs should work with homeowners to ensure they take the proper actions to create an environment that is not susceptible to flea and tick infestations. The best way to eliminate hard-to-control flea populations is to recommend an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach that uses a combination of physical controls, on-animal controls and chemical controls.

Taking Action
Homeowners can reduce fleas in and around homes by treating infested pets with veterinarian-recommended products, washing pet bedding materials, vacuuming carpeted, tile or wood floors and pruning plants and weeds where fleas may be harboring. If these measures are not fully effective, implementation of a chemical control program will help provide more complete control of flea populations.

Archer insect growth regulator attacks the problem where it starts by preventing the development of flea eggs, larvae and nymphs, and causes sterility in adult fleas. Treatments should be focused toward pet sleeping areas, carpets, throw rugs and upholstered furniture. Additionally, tank mixing Archer with an adulticide, such as Demand CS insecticide with iCAP technology, will help control active adults. The combination of these two products is an effective approach for controlling both resistant and non-resistant adult populations.

Effective Solutions for a Pesky Problem
Fleas may be re-introduced into an area, so regular re-treatments may be necessary. Treatments with insecticides will greatly assist flea control efforts. These pests are worthy adversaries, but with effective and powerful tools at their disposal, PMPs can eliminate these nuisance pests and the irritation they can bring customers.

For more information about Archer or Demand CS visit www.syngentapmp.com.